yeah I having doubts.
But this is interesting
Yes, radar can be used as a weapon to cause damage, especially at high power levels, by employing high-power microwave (HPM) technology.
How it works:
- Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs): HPM weapons are a type of DEW that focuses electromagnetic energy, like radio waves, on a target to cause physical damage or disrupt systems.
- High Power Microwaves: These weapons specifically utilize microwaves, which have longer wavelengths than lasers and millimeter waves, and can generate extremely high power outputs (e.g., over 100 megawatts).
- Damage Mechanism: This concentrated microwave energy can heat biological tissue, leading to burns and potentially even death, especially in areas with limited blood flow like the eyes and t. It can also overload and damage electronic components, potentially disrupting or destroying critical systems like those in drones or other equipment.
Examples and Applications:
- Active Denial System: This millimeter wave weapon, developed for riot control, uses the heating effect on skin to cause incapacitating pain, although there are concerns about potential eye damage and long-term health effects.
- Vigilant Eagle: A ground-based airport defense system that uses high-frequency microwaves to disrupt missile guidance systems.
- Bofors HPM Blackout: A high-power microwave weapon designed to disable electronic equipment, potentially including drone swarms.
- AESA Radars: Some argue that AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars on fighter jets could potentially be used as DEWs, but limitations in antenna size, power, and field of view hinder their effectiveness against fast-moving targets like missiles.
Important Considerations:
- High Power Levels: The damaging effects of radar are primarily associated with high-power systems, often found in military or industrial settings.
- Safety Precautions: Due to the potential hazards, safety protocols and regulations are implemented in situations involving high-power radar to mitigate risks to personnel.
- Ongoing Research: Research continues on both the effects of high-power microwaves and the development of DEWs.
It’s important to note that while the potential for harm exists, radar systems are typically designed to operate safely within established guidelines for human exposure.